NEW YORK: A New York jury found him guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in his hush-money case, just months before a potential return to the White House.

Donald Trump’s conviction marks a historic moment in American politics, with the 77-year-old former president now a felon. The charges stem from a payment made to silence adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election. Despite the conviction, Trump remains defiant, branding the trial as “rigged” and vowing to continue his campaign to unseat President Joe Biden.

Judge Juan Merchan set sentencing for July 11, just days before the Republican National Convention. Trump, who was released without bail, could face up to four years in prison for each count but is more likely to receive probation due to his status as a first-time offender.

The jury’s unanimous decision came after two days of deliberation, concluding that Trump had illegally covered up the payment to Daniels. The trial featured graphic testimony from Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, and key witness Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer who facilitated the payment.

The Biden campaign responded by emphasizing that “no one is above the law,” highlighting the significant threat Trump poses to democracy. Trump’s legal woes are far from over, as he faces additional federal and state charges related to the 2020 election and the hoarding of classified documents.

Despite the legal battles, Trump continues to campaign vigorously, using the media attention to rally support and fundraise. Political analysts are divided on the impact of the conviction, noting that it could influence swing voters in key states.